Introduction
The Mouse-Deer, known as Sang Kancil in Malay folklore, is one of the most beloved characters in traditional stories across Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Although small in size, Sang Kancil is admired for his intelligence, quick thinking, and ability to escape danger using wit rather than strength.
One of the most famous stories about him is The Mouse-Deer and the Crocodiles, a tale that teaches the value of cleverness in overcoming challenges.
The Story Begins
Deep within a lush, green tropical forest, there lived a tiny creature named Sang Kancil, the mouse-deer. He was small, swift, and always alert. On one very hot day, the sun shone so brightly that the leaves drooped and the air felt heavy.
Sang Kancil was tired and extremely thirsty.
“Oh dear… this heat is unbearable,” he sighed. “If only I can get across the river to rest in the shade and drink cool water.”
He looked toward the wide river. The water sparkled as it flowed gently, and the other side looked peaceful and refreshing. But there was a big problem:
The river was home to crocodiles.
These crocodiles were known to be fierce and hungry. Sang Kancil knew that if he jumped into the water, the crocodiles would waste no time in making him their lunch.
He needed a plan.
A Clever Idea
After thinking for a moment, Sang Kancil smiled.
“Yes… that’s it. I know what to do.”
He walked to the riverbank and shouted:
“Crocodiles! Oh crocodiles! Come here! I have important news!”
The water began to ripple, and soon a large crocodile raised his head above the surface.
“Why are you calling us, Mouse-Deer?” the crocodile asked.
“Have you finally come to offer yourself as food?”
Sang Kancil pretended to be calm and confident.
“Oh no, I am not here to be eaten,” he replied.
“I have come to deliver an announcement from the King of the Jungle, the Lion.”
The crocodile blinked, surprised.
“The Lion? What does he want with us?”
“The Lion is preparing a grand feast for all the crocodiles in this river!” said Sang Kancil. “But he needs to know how many crocodiles live here. So, I must count you all.”
The crocodiles became excited—
A great feast sounded wonderful!
The Crocodiles Are Tricked
The large crocodile called the others. One by one, crocodiles surfaced until many heads could be seen in the river.
Sang Kancil then gave instructions:
“Please line up from one side of the river to the other. I will step on each of your backs while counting. Do not move!”
Even though it was a strange request, the crocodiles wanted to cooperate. So they formed a long line, creating a bridge of crocodile bodies across the river.
Sang Kancil hopped onto the first crocodile’s back and began to count loudly:
“One!”
He jumped to the next.
“Two!”
Then the next.
“Three! Four! Five! Six! …”
He continued jumping swiftly—never letting his hooves touch the water.
Soon, Sang Kancil reached the opposite bank. The moment he felt the solid ground, he leaped away from the crocodile line.
The Truth Revealed
From a safe distance, Sang Kancil turned around and laughed cheerfully.
“Thank you, crocodiles!
I never came to count you for a feast.
I just needed to cross the river!”
The crocodiles were furious.
“You tricked us! You will pay for this one day!” they roared.
But Sang Kancil simply smiled and bowed politely.
“My friends, remember this: Being small does not mean being weak.
Wisdom is stronger than strength. Goodbye!”
And with that, he disappeared into the shade of the forest, leaving the angry crocodiles behind.
Moral of the Story
This traditional tale teaches us valuable lessons:
- Intelligence can overcome strength.
- Stay calm when facing difficulties.
- Think before you act and use strategy wisely.
- Do not believe everything easily without questioning.
Conclusion
The story of Sang Kancil and the Crocodiles continues to be told for generations because of its simple yet powerful message. It reflects the cultural values of the Malay community that appreciates wisdom, cleverness, and patience.
Sang Kancil shows us that even the smallest of beings can achieve great victories with sharp thinking.
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